I do find us beautiful, especially since I am one (not more than other ethnicities/races by the way). However, why not talk about how intelligent we are? Don’t only focus on the models, but the politicians, activists, writers, and the ones who are shaking industries. You got Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Somalia, Eritrea, Ethiopia (Ayyy! Represent!), Djibouti, South Sudan, etc. Our shades of melanin are diverse as our talents.

I thought “Well if no one is going to, then I guess I will.” After searching for a while, I have gotten a list of 13 East African women who are owning what they do. It doesn’t matter if it’s music, business, art, or politics. We can do it!

During all of this, the South Sudanese women are the glue. In a Huffington Post article, we learn that they have and raise children, clean, fetch water, get the materials needed for home, and cook meanwhile still holding a smile. No one should dare disrespect these brave, courageous, strong women.

10. Chef de Colline Spès Ndikumana

Spès Ndikumana is the inspiration you need if you don’t know if you should go for it. Chef de Colline (mayor) of Ruzo, Burundi has served leadership in community organizations before running for office. Those who opposed Ndikumana winning was mainly just against the idea of women leading. There aren’t many female chefs de colline so her accomplishment is proof that women can do other roles in society. You can learn more about this game changer on Search for Common Ground.

12. Khadija Ahmed Barkad

Don’t you ever say women don’t step up to the plate when there’s trouble. Djibouti woman Khadija Ahmed Barkad lives in a climate where there’s little rain and clean drinking water isn’t common. She decided to create a water filtration company called ZamZam to fix this problem and brought throughout the capital Djibouti. Not only is she a very successful entrepreneur, but she’s impacted the country positively.